Harper Government Invests in Upgrades to TELUS World of Science in Edmonton

EDMONTON, April 18, 2012 /CNW/ - TELUS World of Science in Edmonton is
getting a facelift that will boost tourism and create jobs and growth
throughout Alberta, thanks to support from the Government of Canada.
This was announced today by the Honourable Laurie Hawn, Member of
Parliament (Edmonton Centre), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore,
Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

With this funding, the Edmonton Space and Science Foundation will begin
implementing its 10-year expansion and revitalization plan. Support
will enable TELUS World of Science - Edmonton to purchase and install
an OmniGlobe theatre projection system and build a 16,000 square foot
feature exhibition gallery for touring exhibits. Thanks to this
initiative, the centre will be transformed into one of the largest and
most diversified science hubs in Canada.

"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in
important upgrades to facilities like TELUS World of Science that
promote learning and fuel our imagination," said Minister Moore. "By
supporting this initiative, our Government is delivering on its
commitment to strengthen our economy, create jobs, and support arts,
culture and heritage."

"TELUS World of Science - Edmonton inspires and educates residents and
visitors to Edmonton," said the Honourable Laurie Hawn. "These upgrades
will provide greater access to state-of-the-art science programming for
children, students and families for years to come."

"The support from the Government of Canada is vital to the successful
future of TELUS World of Science - Edmonton and will allow us to
continue to make a significant contribution to innovation in Alberta
and Canada for many years to come," said George Smith, President and
CEO of TELUS World of Science - Edmonton.

The Edmonton Space and Science Foundation, which operates TELUS World of
Science - Edmonton, aims to inspire a life-long love of science in
children and adults alike. The Foundation delivers programs and
services that reflect the diverse and evolving interests of the
community. It is creating a positive science and technology culture in
Edmonton that motivates people to learn about and contribute to
advances in science and technology that benefit all Canadians.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $1,500,000 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to improve
physical conditions for artistic creativity and arts presentations or
exhibitions. It is also designed to increase access for Canadians to
performing arts, visual arts, media arts, museum collections, and
heritage displays.

For further information:

For more information (media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages 819-997-7788